Promote Marriage. Protect Life. The Legacy of St. Valentine

By: Laura Strietmann, Executive Director, Cincinnati Right to Life

St. Valentine lived as a devoted Roman Catholic priest in the third century, at a time when Emperor Claudius II outlawed marriages for men serving in his army, believing that soldiers without family ties fought better. Valentine, however, recognized marriage as a sacred blessing from God and a foundation for strong families.

In quiet defiance of the emperor’s order, he joined couples in holy matrimony, honoring God’s design for love and family even though it placed his own safety at risk. Because of this brave commitment to God’s truth, Valentine was eventually arrested, held in prison, and gave his life for his faith. His example teaches us that real love is more than sentiment — it is courageous, self-giving, and rooted in fidelity to what is right.

This unwavering love reflects the perfect love of Christ, who teaches us that laying down our lives for others is the greatest expression of love (John 15:13). For the pro-life movement, St. Valentine’s witness resonates deeply. As we work to support mothers and defend the dignity of every human life in Cincinnati and throughout Ohio, we are reminded that stable families and sacrificial love are essential to a flourishing society.

In many ways, we already know a powerful part of the answer to ending abortion — promoting and strengthening marriage.

National data from the CDC and other research show that approximately 87% of abortions occur among unmarried women, and the 2024 Ohio Department of Health report indicates that about 78% of abortions in Ohio are among unmarried mothers. These sobering numbers reveal how deeply abortion is connected to family instability and the absence of committed support. When marriage is honored, prepared for, and sustained, mothers, fathers, and children are far more likely to thrive together.

The fight to end abortion does not begin in a courtroom or a legislature — it begins in the human heart. It begins by boldly proclaiming the truth of God’s PERFECT design for the human person and encouraging each man and woman to embrace their authentic vocation. When we strengthen and promote faithful, lifelong marriage between a husband and wife, we lay the foundation for stability, responsibility, and sacrificial love. Strong marriages form strong families, and strong families build a culture where every child is welcomed, and every mother is supported.

This is why pro-life work requires perseverance and long-suffering. At its heart, we are not merely advancing policy — we are proclaiming truth and extending love. Our mission reaches into every corner of society: into our churches, schools, and homes, into the halls of government, into the fabric of our culture. And when necessary, it leads us to stand prayerfully and faithfully on the sidewalks outside abortion facilities, witnessing to the dignity of every human life. In all these places, we remain steadfast, knowing that authentic love is patient, courageous, and willing to endure for the sake of the vulnerable.

If we truly desire to end abortion, we must renew our commitment to God’s beautiful plan for love, life, and the family. In doing so, we follow the courageous example of St. Valentine — defending marriage, strengthening families, and building a culture where every human life is protected and cherished.

This cartoon was so sweet and full of truth, we had to share—courtesy of our friends in Ireland: Life Institute.